Zesty Fresh Lemon Nut Bars

Zesty Fresh Lemon Nut Bars Recipe - Delicious and Easy to Make

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 36 pieces

Introduction

Zesty Fresh Lemon Nut Bars are a delightful treat that combines the tangy flavor of fresh lemon with the crunch of walnuts in a delicious bar form. These bars are perfect for a sweet snack or dessert.

History

The recipe for Zesty Fresh Lemon Nut Bars has been passed down through generations in many families. It is a classic dessert that is often served at special occasions and gatherings. The combination of lemon and nuts creates a unique flavor profile that is both refreshing and satisfying.

Ingredients

0.5 cup of softened butter or margarine
0.5 cup of granulated sugar
grated peel of 1 lemon
1.5 cups of all purpose flour
1 cup of firmly packed brown sugar
1 cup of finely chopped walnuts
2 eggs, slightly beaten
0.25 tsp of baking powder
lemon Glaze

How to prepare

To make the crust, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and 0.5 lemon peel in a bowl.
Gradually stir in 1.25 cups of flour to form a soft, crumbly dough.
Press the dough evenly into the bottom of a 13 by 9 by 2-inch baking pan.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 15 minutes.
Meanwhile, to prepare the filling, combine the brown sugar, walnuts, eggs, baking powder, remaining 0.25 cup of flour, and 0.5 lemon peel in a bowl.
Spread the filling over the baked crust.
Bake for an additional 20 minutes.
Remove from the oven and thinly spread with lemon glaze while still hot.
Allow to cool, then cut into 36 pieces.

Variations

Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top of the bars for an extra touch of sweetness.
Substitute almonds or pecans for the walnuts for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use fresh lemon zest for the best flavor in these bars.

- Be careful not to overmix the dough when making the crust, as this can result in a tough texture.

- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them into squares to ensure clean, neat slices.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Zesty Fresh Lemon Nut Bars with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making Zesty Fresh Lemon Nut Bars is to bake the crust and filling separately to ensure that each layer is cooked to perfection.

Ingredient Substitutions

Butter can be used instead of margarine in this recipe.

- Almond flour can be used in place of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version of these bars.

Make Ahead Tips

Zesty Fresh Lemon Nut Bars can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the Zesty Fresh Lemon Nut Bars on a decorative platter and garnish with fresh lemon slices for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Zesty Fresh Lemon Nut Bars with a glass of sparkling water or a fruity white wine for a refreshing combination.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store Zesty Fresh Lemon Nut Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the bars in a 350°F (177°C) oven for 5 minutes.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Zesty Fresh Lemon Nut Bars contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Zesty Fresh Lemon Nut Bars contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Zesty Fresh Lemon Nut Bars contains approximately 8 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Zesty Fresh Lemon Nut Bars contains approximately 2 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Zesty Fresh Lemon Nut Bars are a good source of vitamin C from the fresh lemon zest.

Alergens

Zesty Fresh Lemon Nut Bars contain nuts and eggs.

Summary

Zesty Fresh Lemon Nut Bars are a delicious treat that is relatively low in calories and provides a good source of carbohydrates and fats.

Summary

Zesty Fresh Lemon Nut Bars are a delightful dessert that combines the tangy flavor of fresh lemon with the crunch of walnuts in a delicious bar form. These bars are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be cherished. It was a warm summer day, and I was taking a leisurely stroll through the farmer's market, browsing the vibrant array of fruits and vegetables on display. As I made my way through the bustling crowd, my eyes were drawn to a stand overflowing with plump, juicy lemons. Their bright yellow color and fresh scent beckoned to me, and I knew I had to bring some home with me.

I purchased a bag of the lemons and decided to make a refreshing lemonade when I got back. But as I was squeezing the lemons, I noticed a small, weathered piece of paper tucked away in the bottom of the bag. Curious, I unfolded it and was delighted to find a handwritten recipe for Zesty Fresh Lemon Nut Bars.

The recipe was simple yet intriguing, calling for a buttery crust, a tangy lemon filling, and a sprinkling of crunchy nuts on top. I had never made anything quite like it before, but I was eager to give it a try. With a smile on my face, I set to work gathering the ingredients and preheating the oven.

As I mixed the dough for the crust, memories flooded back to me of my own grandmother teaching me how to bake when I was just a little girl. She was a master in the kitchen, and I was always in awe of her culinary skills. She had a knack for creating delicious treats out of the most humble ingredients, and she passed down her love of cooking to me.

I rolled out the dough and pressed it into the baking pan, savoring the familiar feeling of flour on my hands and the sweet scent of butter in the air. Next, I prepared the lemon filling, squeezing the juice from the lemons and whisking it together with sugar and eggs until it was thick and creamy.

As the bars baked in the oven, the tantalizing aroma of citrus and nuts filled my kitchen, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished product. When the timer finally dinged, I eagerly pulled the pan out of the oven and let it cool before cutting into squares.

The first bite was pure bliss. The buttery crust crumbled delicately in my mouth, giving way to the bright, zesty lemon filling that danced on my taste buds. The crunch of the nuts added a satisfying texture to the bars, making them truly irresistible.

I knew right then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my own collection. It was a perfect balance of sweet and tart, with a hint of nostalgia that reminded me of my grandmother and the joy of sharing homemade treats with loved ones.

Since that fateful day at the farmer's market, I have made these Zesty Fresh Lemon Nut Bars countless times, each batch bringing back fond memories of that serendipitous discovery. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, spreading the joy of baking and the love that goes into every homemade treat.

As I sit here now, enjoying a freshly baked lemon bar with a cup of tea, I am grateful for the simple pleasures in life – a recipe found by chance, a kitchen filled with warmth, and the love of cooking that has been passed down through generations. And as I take another bite of the tangy, nutty treat, I am reminded once again of the magic that happens when a humble lemon transforms into something truly extraordinary.